Radial Keratotomy Complicated by Sterile Keratitis and Corneal Perforation: Histopathologic Case Report and Review of Complications

A 35-year-old physician had radial keratotomy (RK) for correction of myopia. Combined radial and transecting circumferential incisions were used which resulted in wound gape, persistent epithelial defect, and severe sterile keratitis. Progressive corneal decompensation required an initial patch graft followed by a penetrating keratoplasty four months after RK. Histopathology of the cornea demonstrated epithelial edema and persistent incisional epithelial plug formation, deep and superficial vascularization, variable incision depth (superficial to full thickness), endothelial cell loss, and inflammatory cell infiltration at all levels of the cornea. A review of the reported complications of RK is included in the discussion of this case.